Significant government incentives to boost tourism activity
The Gambian government has been very active in promoting tourism and increasing its contribution to economic growth. Hence, the incentives for investment in upmarket tourism are huge.
These include a 3-year tax holiday, duty waivers, exemption from customs duties, sales and turnover taxes. In 2007 the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the Tourism and Travel Association started a promotional campaign aimed to aggressively sell Gambia as ‘the’ destination. It also made promotional videos for presentation at international tourism conferences.
These include a 3-year tax holiday, duty waivers, exemption from customs duties, sales and turnover taxes. In 2007 the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the Tourism and Travel Association started a promotional campaign aimed to aggressively sell Gambia as ‘the’ destination. It also made promotional videos for presentation at international tourism conferences.
The challenge presented by package tours
The contribution of tourism to the GDP remains rather modest in Gambia. This is very much due to the fact that a high percentage (up to 80%) of inbound tourists are on package tours, paying for their trips in their home countries. Thus, much of the revenue from the industry never arrives in Gambia. The predicament for the government is that without these tour operators international arrivals would be much lower than they are now.
Responsible tourism policy for Gambia
The Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the Gambian Tourism Authority and the Tourism and Travel Association worked together to form what is referred to as ‘the responsible tourism policy for Gambia’. Its main objective is to increase the contribution of tourism to the economy and to raise the living standards of Gambians by maximising the positive impacts of tourism and minimising the negative ones.
Eco-tourism an emerging trend
Eco-tourism is an important and rapidly growing niche within the travel and tourism industry. Gambia is in a great position to capitalise on this, but recognises the need to develop a sustainable eco-tourism programme since the country has only a few national parks and wildlife reserves that lack accessibility and comfort for tourists. Therefore, in addition to regulating its development and ensuring that real benefits are felt in local communities, it is also aiming at minimising future environmental impact.
Bright outlook for tourism in Gambia
The travel and tourism industry in Gambia has a very bright future, particularly considering the active role being played by the government to grow and diversify the market. The present initiatives that have been introduced by the Gambian Tourism Authority and the Tourism and Travel Association will have a significant positive impact on the industry and domestic economy over the mid to long term. It is also expected that as the tourism industry diversifies, Gambia will become a place to visit all year round.
Contact details and Reservations:
Luigis Complex for the best Gambian self-catering apartments, serviced flats, beachside accommodation, bed and breakfast, restaurant and eco-tourism excursions.
Relax and enjoy your Gambia Holidays with us!
info@luigiscomplex.com
www.luigis.gm/
Tel +220 446028o
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